The Learning Outside the Classroom Manifesto was launched in November 2006 to achieve the goal of creating more and better quality learning outside the classroom (LOtC) experiences for young people.To that end DCSF and the Manifesto Partnership have developed a series of measures to support users (schools, families etc) and providers (museums, historic houses, churches, temples, outdoor activity centres, theatres etc) in achieving this goal.

A key measure is the Learning Outside the Classroom Quality Badge which will be awarded to providers that offer and facilitate good quality learning experiences at their site.Not only will the badge scheme enable schools and other users to more easily identify organisations which offer good quality learning opportunities, but it will also give providers a developmental framework through which to evaluate and develop their own learning provision.

In order to support providers in the heritage, sacred space and built environment sectors in getting the Quality Badge, GEM has been contracted by DCSF to deliver a training programme before the end of March 2009.The aim of the programme is to improve awareness and understanding of the badge scheme and in so doing improve the chances of making a successful application.

Programme

18 one day events will be run through England in February and March 2009

Attendance at these events is FREE for individuals from providers in the sacred space, heritage and built environment sectors.A maximum of two individuals can attend from any one organisation.There will be approximately two events per English region

Each event will be run by a trained trainer

Free venues

A number of organisations have offered their sites as free venues for this training.We still need to identify more free venues.If you are able to offer your site, please contact Ian Blackwell, project coordinator – [log in to unmask]If we are able to use your venue to hold an event, you will be eligible to send up to four representatives from your organisation to the event.

Who should attend?

Representatives from organisations in the heritage, sacred space and built environment sectors interested in applying for the Quality Badge

Learning specialists or those who plan and deliver learning programmes at heritage, sacred space and built environment organisations/sites

Next steps

For further information and/or to register your interest in attending one of these events, please email Ian Blackwell, project coordinator at: [log in to unmask]